Time Commitment: Full time, year-round, with weekend and occasional holiday work as needed. Schedule may vary week to week.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Colonial Pennsylvania Plantation is an 18th century living history farm featuring heritage breed animals, period-appropriate crops, and five historic buildings preserved to represent a typical mid-size colonial property. The Farm Caretaker will be responsible for feeding and caring for the animals, assisting with the planting and harvesting of crops, and maintaining the general appearance of the site.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

The Plantation is home to sheep, pigs, horses, cattle and poultry. The Farm Caretaker will be responsible for feeding and care of the animals five days per week, adhering to the ALHFAM Position Statement on the Use of Livestock in Museum Settings.

With over 10,000 visitors per year, maintaining the appearance and safety of the site is critically important. The Farm Caretaker will provide seasonal mowing and weedwacking, and will ensure that public areas are clear and clean of debris.

The Farm Caretaker will assist in the planting and maintenance of field crops which may include wheat, oats, corn, potatoes and tobacco.

The Farm Caretaker will assist in basic repairs to fencing and buildings, and maintenance of equipment.

BENEFITS

On-site housing provided.

Paid vacation days will be allotted.

Contribution toward medical insurance available.

QUALIFICATIONS

Must be 21 years of age or older and possess a valid driver’s license. Reliable transportation a must; pickup truck or similar preferred.

The ideal candidate will have a background in animal husbandry. Care for the animals will include the ability to recognize ailments or injuries and request veterinary services when needed. Feeding, cleaning, and administering medication when applicable are expected. Experience driving and training oxen and horses is a plus.

Knowledge of and experience in colonial agriculture, animal husbandry, or general history a plus.

Ability to meet the physical demands of the position and perform farm work both indoors and out. This includes lifting a minimum of 50 pounds in weight; standing for long periods of time; walking over rough terrain; working in heat, cold, and rainy weather, and contact with livestock.

MUST be able and willing to work as part of a team, take direction, and be open and friendly with visitors, volunteers, and staff.

The Farm Caretaker will not be required to interpret colonial history, but the ability to do so would be considered a plus.

Must submit to, and pass, a criminal background check and a Pennsylvania child abuse clearance.

To apply, please email your resume and cover letter to: Jennifer Green, Executive Director, at education@colonialplantation.org. No phone calls please. Review of applications will begin immediately and position will remain open until filled.